15 Florida College Summer Programs for High School Students

If you are a high school student looking to learn beyond the school curriculum, college-led summer programs offer a valuable way to do just that. 

These programs give you a front-row seat to what university-level academics and student life are really like. From research exposure and project-based learning to industry exposure and access to college-level instruction, these programs can offer you opportunities to explore your interests and be better prepared for future education. If you’re based in Florida, you’re in luck! There’s multiple universities that host programs for high school students each year, across a variety of subjects.Whether you're interested in engineering, medicine, law, the arts, or data science, spending your summer on a local university campus can help you learn advanced concepts, strengthen your college applications, and discover what motivates you. 

To help you with your search, we have put together this list of 15 Florida college summer programs for high school students.

15 Florida College Summer Programs for High School Students

1. Florida State College GRADS Program

Location: Florida State College at Jacksonville, Kent Campus, Jacksonville, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Not specified

Dates: Begins annually during the summer

Application Deadline: Not specified; contact FSCJ CARES at (904) 633-8219 for details

Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–12 who meet academic criteria

GRADS is offered in partnership with the Florida Department of Education and Duval County Public Schools, and provides year-round academic support as well as connections to local employers and postsecondary pathways. The program helps high school students in Duval County connect classroom learning with real-world college and career planning. You will participate in SAT and ACT prep sessions, attend college and university campus tours, and join job readiness workshops that cover resume building, interview techniques, and financial literacy. The program also offers access to summer internships, mentorship opportunities, and guidance on scholarships and FAFSA. 

2. Florida State University’s Young Scholars Program (YSP)

Location: Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified

Dates: June 8 – July 19

Application Deadline: February 15

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors in Florida (exceptionally qualified 10th graders may be considered) with:

• Minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA

• 90th percentile or higher in math on a standardized test (SAT, ACT, PSAT, PLAN)

• Completed or currently enrolled in Pre-Calculus

YSP is a six-week residential summer experience for high-achieving Florida students with strong interests in science, tech, math, and engineering. As a YSP participant, you will enroll in specially designed courses in mathematics, science, and computer programming led by university faculty. In addition to rigorous academics, the program offers social and recreational activities such as themed dances, canoe trips, and scavenger hunts, helping you find the right balance between intensive coursework and relaxation. YSP can offer you an opportunity to explore college-level expectations and life on a college campus in a collaborative setting.

3. CodeBreakHERS @ University of South Florida

Location: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free — includes all materials, five lunches, a Raspberry Pi computer, software access, and camp merchandise

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Space is limited; exact cohort size not specified

Dates: June 23 – 27

Application Deadline: April 6

Eligibility: Students in grades 8–12

CodeBreakHERS is a free, five-day cybersecurity camp at the University of South Florida’s Tampa campus designed to introduce participants to a broad range of topics in cybersecurity through instruction, projects, and collaborative challenges. USF faculty and cybersecurity professionals will help you explore topics like hardware security, internet safety, cryptographic methods, blockchain concepts, and data encoding. Over the course of the week, you will learn how to work with a Linux system using your own Raspberry Pi computer, explore how network connections work, and practice converting data into binary, hexadecimal, ASCII, and other formats. You will engage in a cryptocurrency challenge, simulating mining on the blockchain and scoring points. The program culminates in a series of Capture the Flag competitions, where you will work with peers to solve problems.

4. Ocean Engineering Summer Workshop @ Florida Atlantic University

Location: Florida Atlantic University, SeaTech Campus, Dania Beach, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective; 30–40 students accepted

Dates: June 9 – 12

Application Deadline: Not specified

Eligibility: Students ages 14–17

The Ocean Engineering Summer Workshop at Florida Atlantic University offers an introduction to fluid dynamics, robotics, marine engineering, and how core scientific concepts apply to ocean and mechanical systems. Over the course of four days, you will participate in research-based activities that combine science, engineering, and technology. You will learn foundational programming skills and apply them in the assembly, coding, and operation of robotic carts and drones. You will also explore the basics of naval architecture while designing and building miniature boats. The workshop culminates in a competitive team-based boat race, where your designs are put to the test.

5. Building Futures: Summer Workshop @ Florida Atlantic University

Location: Florida Atlantic University (FAU), Boca Raton, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective; limited to 30 participants

Dates: July 28 – 31

Application Deadline: Not specified

Eligibility: High school students currently in grades 9–11

The Building Futures Summer Workshop offers high school students a four-day introduction to the fields of civil, environmental, and geomatics engineering. Hosted by FAU’s Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatics Engineering, the workshop provides practical exposure to engineering challenges with a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, and innovation. Throughout the program, you will work with university faculty and peers on environmental engineering and infrastructure development projects, exploring how engineers address issues like solid waste management and environmental remediation. You will also learn about traditional materials and construction methods, as well as modern construction technologies like 3D printing. 

6. Upward Bound Math & Science @ FSU 

Location: Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Not specified

Dates: Six-week summer program, including five weeks of residential participation on the FSU campus

Application Deadline: Rolling; students can contact program staff or school counselors at target schools to apply

Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents in grades 9–12 who meet federal income guidelines or are first-generation college-bound students; priority given to students enrolled in Hamilton County High School and Suwannee High School

Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) is designed to support high school students in exploring STEM careers while preparing for college. During its summer component, you will spend five weeks living and learning on the FSU campus and participating in academic instruction focused on math, science, literature, and foreign language through a project-based learning model. Beyond classroom sessions, you will engage in career exploration through job shadowing, visits to colleges across the Southeast, and excursions that introduce you to new cultural and professional experiences. The program emphasizes community building, hands-on projects, and exposure to campus life, offering you access to residence halls, student organizations, and academic support services. 

7. St. Petersburg College Summer of Success (SOS) Program

Location: St. Petersburg College, Pinellas County, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free; includes tuition, lab fees, textbooks, and college application fee

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective; details not available

Dates: June 16 – July 25

Application Deadline: Rolling; early application encouraged due to limited space

Eligibility: Graduating seniors from Pinellas County high schools who are first-generation college-bound, from a low-income family, or have a documented disability (SPC disability verification required); applicants must be Florida residents and U.S. citizens or permanent residents

SOS is a six-week, college bridge program designed to support graduating high school seniors as they transition into college. Here, you will gain familiarity with the academic and social environment of a college while earning credit. You will attend classes on the college campus, engaging in courses covering foundational communication skills, digital proficiency, and college-level expectations. The program will introduce you to key campus resources and support systems. As a participant, you will receive a full summer scholarship that covers college application fees, tuition, lab fees, and textbooks. SOS also offers access to personalized guidance on financial aid applications.

8. College Prep @ Eckerd College

Location: Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free for qualifying students

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective

Dates: June 22 – 27

Application Deadline: Applications accepted until the program is full

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors who live in the St. Petersburg area or surrounding communities; preference given to aspiring first-generation college students with a maximum annual household income of $78,800 for a family of four (or equivalent)

College Prep at Eckerd College is a free, weeklong college preparatory residential program for high schoolers. Through a mix of classroom instruction, self-assessment, and guided activities, you will gain insights into college-level expectations. Throughout the week, you will explore the structure and expectations of college coursework while engaging in accelerated classes in liberal arts subjects taught by Eckerd faculty. You will also engage in exercises to assess academic strengths, identify areas for improvement, and build socio-emotional skills. You will also have access to one-on-one mentorship in drafting a college application, choosing a college, assessing financial aid sources, and writing a personal essay. 

9. University of Florida’s Gator Pharmacy Exploration Camp

Location: University of Florida College of Pharmacy, Gainesville, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective

Dates: June 8 – 14

Application Deadline: March 17

Eligibility: Students entering grade 12 who are Florida residents; priority given to those from medically underserved areas (as defined by HRSA), Title I schools, or students facing socioeconomic hardship

The Gator Pharmacy Exploration Camp offers rising Florida high school seniors a week-long introduction to pharmacy and academic pathways in the field. Hosted by the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, the program offers you the opportunity to explore more than 100 career paths within pharmacy and what it takes to succeed in pharmacy school. Throughout the week, you will engage in skills labs, discussions, team-building exercises, and workshops, and receive mentorship from pre-pharmacy and Doctor of Pharmacy students. You will also interact with practicing pharmacists across fields, including hospital, retail, and research. Activities include guided tours of the university’s pharmacy facilities, medication compounding demonstrations, a group project on public health, and sessions where you will create custom pharmaceutical formulas. 

10. Camp Connect @ University of Central Florida

Location: L3Harris Engineering Center at UCF Main Campus, Orlando, FL

Cost/Stipend: $200; includes lunch, T-shirt, backpack, and all materials; financial aid available

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective; specific cohort size not stated

Dates: June 23 – 27

Application Deadline: May 9

Eligibility: Rising 8th–11th grade students who are at least 13 years old by the start of the program

Camp Connect I, hosted by the Center for Initiatives in STEM at the University of Central Florida, is a week-long day camp focusing on engineering and computer science. You will engage in activities, lab tours, and presentations led by UCF faculty and students to explore civil, environmental, mechanical, aerospace, industrial, electrical, computer, and construction engineering, as well as computer science. You will also work in a team on a project and present it on the final day of camp. Throughout the week, you will interact with university faculty, engineering undergraduates, and other STEM professionals, gaining insights into academic and professional paths and applications of engineering concepts.  You can also explore Camp Connect II and Camp Connect Advanced, part of UCF’s Camp Connect series, after completing the Connect I program. 

11. Florida Gulf Coast University’s STEM Academy

Location: Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), Fort Myers, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free, including overnight accommodation, meals, field trips, and materials

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Not specified

Dates: June 15 – June 27

Application Deadline: April 14

Eligibility: Current high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors enrolled in schools in Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades, or Charlotte Counties with a minimum 3.0 GPA; applicants must have completed Algebra I

The FGCU STEM Academy is a two-week residential summer program focused on helping students explore future pathways in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through a mix of faculty-led classroom learning, group projects, and field experiences, you will build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and professional communication. You will also participate in field trips that help you connect academic content to STEM careers and connect with professionals in various fields. The program also offers exposure to the admissions process and study strategies. You will work in a team on a culminating group project. 

12. UCF’s Laser & Photonics Summer Camp 

Location: The College of Optics and Photonics at the University of Central Florida (UCF), Orlando, FL

Cost: Early bird registration (before April 30): $550 | Regular Registration (May 1 – June 15): $650; need-based scholarships available

Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified

Dates: July 7 – 11 | July 14 – 18 | July 21 – 25

Application deadline: June 15

Eligibility: Students in grades 10 – 12

The University of Central Florida’s Laser & Photonics camp introduces high school students to the field of optics and photonics through activities. During the program, you will work in a lab, exploring lasers, prisms, and equations to understand the properties of light and light-based technology. Professor-led lectures are also part of the experience. You may also get to engage in activities like making a circuit board, soldering, and aligning lasers. Throughout the program, you will learn about careers in photonics engineering and optics and explore college-level academics.

13. New College of Florida’s Summer Scholars Program

Location: New College of Florida, Sarasota, FL

Cost/Stipend: Free

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Selective

Dates: June 22 – 27

Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until June 1

Eligibility: Rising 10th–12th graders

As a Summer Scholars participant, you will engage in practical learning, collaborate with faculty, and explore marine biology, artificial intelligence, creative writing, music performance, or civic thought, based on the track you choose. For instance, the Creative Writing Program offers a workshop led by professional writers and opportunities to present and even publish your work. The Marine Biology Program allows you to learn about ecological problems and explore solutions to issues affecting U.S. waterways and estuaries. The Civics Writing Program covers constitutional law and governance, whereas the AI Program covers the basics of machine learning, generative AI, and prompt engineering. The Chamber Orchestra and Vocalist Program can help you refine classical performance skills under the guidance of musicians. You will also have a shot at earning merit-based scholarships to New College.

14. Beacon College Summer for Success

Location: Beacon College, Leesburg, FL

Cost/Stipend: $5,450 – $7,500 depending on the course; financial aid available

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Not specified

Dates: July 13 – August 1

Application Deadline: Rolling admission

Eligibility: High school students, ages 15–18, with diagnosed learning disabilities

At Beacon College’s Summer for Success, you will spend three immersive weeks living on a college campus and exploring an academic track based on your interests. The Exploration Track offers courses and creative and academic workshops in different fields, the Imagination Track focuses on Disney’s work, and the Illumination Track offers the opportunity to explore entertainment, hospitality, and storytelling. The Exploration Track courses span various disciplines, from photography, finance, and marketing to anthrozoology. Outside the classroom, you will enjoy campus life, getting access to fitness sessions, game lounges, movie nights, and student-run clubs. You will also participate in weekend trips to major Orlando attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios. 

15. UCF’s Health Leaders Summer Academy (HLSA)

Location: University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL

Cost/Stipend: $450; financial aid available

Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Not specified

Dates: July 14–18

Application Deadline: TBA; check program site for updates

Eligibility: High school students; applicants who are first-generation college students or from low-income backgrounds are encouraged to apply

Hosted by the University of Central Florida, HLSA is a week-long program designed to help you explore health-centered career paths. Throughout the week, you will engage in clinical activities and health simulations that offer a close-up look at what it’s like to work in medicine. You’ll visit university campuses and facilities, meet healthcare providers from various specialties, and learn about different educational tracks in health sciences offered at UCF. The program also offers mentorship and exposure to professionals who can help guide your academic and career decisions. 

One other option—Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you want to pursue independent research under the guidance of a mentor, consider applying to Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, which are selective high school programs founded in partnership with Harvard and Oxford researchers. In the past, 4,000+ students applied for just 500 spots in the research program. You can learn about the application and available programs on the application form here.

Also, you can check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented low-income students. Last year, it offered 150 students full need-based financial assistance.

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program in which students work one-on-one with a research mentor to develop a research paper.

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